Richard M. Sherman, Beloved Composer of Timeless Disney Melodies, Dies at 95
Richard M. Sherman, whose melodies for “Mary Poppins,” “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” and the unforgettable “It’s a Small World (After All)” became staples of the Disney experience, passed away at the age of 95. He died due to age-related complications at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills.
Alongside his brother, Robert B. Sherman, Richard forged an iconic duo that wrote songs for Disney, beginning with their 1958 hit, “Tall Paul.” Their role as in-house songwriters at Disney was unique and much cherished during the era.
The early 1960s saw the Shermans compose memorable film scores for Hayley Mills vehicles like “The Parent Trap,” and “Summer Magic,” as well as writing songs for “The Absent-Minded Professor” and “Moon Pilot.” One of their earliest successes was the music for “Sword in the Stone.” As the 1960s progressed, their music became synonymous with the most memorable aspects of Disney themes and attractions.
The world was first introduced to their perennial classic, “It’s a Small World,” in 1964 at the New York World’s Fair. This simple, yet profoundly catchy song echoed through the Disneyland ride of the same name, enchanting millions and becoming an emblem of Disney’s joyful and unified spirit. Heard once, it was seldom forgotten, as it captured the imaginations and voices of children and adults worldwide.
Peak Success with “Mary Poppins”
“Mary Poppins” marked a high point in their collaboration with Disney. Released in 1964, the film’s success was mirrored by the greatness of its soundtrack. The Shermans were awarded Oscars for Best Music Score and Best Original Song for “Chim Chim Cher-ee.” “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” “A Spoonful of Sugar,” and “Feed the Birds” remain classic examples of their songwriting prowess.
Even beyond Walt Disney’s passing in 1966, the Sherman brothers continued to contribute memorable melodies to family favorites. Their mastery over gooey, upbeat music with a touch of innocence redefined musical whimsy during the late 1960s into the 1970s.
While the Shermans ventured into work outside Disney, including the famous “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” their musical aesthetic remained timelessly identifiable with the joy and innocence of Disney’s creations. Their soundtracks were noted not only for their melodic qualities but also for their vivid portrayals of character and emotion.
A Diverse Legacy in Film and Theater
Beyond Disney, the Shermans expanded their horizon to broader audiences with “Victory Canteen,” a World War II musical, and subsequently the Broadway hit “Over Here!” Although the latter secured numerous Tony nominations, it found its fame more with its array of cast members like John Travolta.
Their work “Tom Sawyer” was recognized with the top prize at the Moscow Film Festival in 1973. Later, “The Slipper and the Rose” invited acclaim as a Cinderella-inspired musical masterpiece, showcasing the duo’s knack for crafting fairy-tale scores.
Returning to Disney roots, the Shermans created the score for 2000’s “The Tigger Movie,” marking an endearing reconnection after years of varied projects.
Even more recent endeavors like “Once Upon a Studio,” where Richard Sherman appeared in a cameo, underscore the timeless charm their music exudes. Enmeshed with Disney’s essence, the Sherman legacy endures, affording Richard Sherman’s music a place of honor in cinematic history.
Richard Sherman’s melodies have surged through decades, transcending generational boundaries. His passing is deeply felt by fans whose lives and childhoods are forever enriched by the joy he brought through his songs.
Today, as we reflect on the contribution of Richard Sherman to music and film, it’s essential to recognize the enduring impact of his songs. Through tales of whimsical adventure and heartfelt emotion, Richard, along with his brother Robert, has provided a soundtrack for life’s sweetest moments.
For those who fondly recall the tunes from “Mary Poppins,” “The Jungle Book,” “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh,” and more, we were afforded a melange of wonderment that lives on, resonating vibrantly with each new listener.
Richard M. Sherman, a beacon of musical wonderment, has left an indelible mark, wrapping generations in a musical embrace that is as magical today as it was decades ago. His legacy dances on, as fans and performers alike cherish the sheets of melody he wrote for all to sing.